Burkina Faso is a West African country known for art, terrific culture, and ethnic diversity. This African nation was once a French land but secured its identity later in 1960. The people here are mostly dependent on agriculture and its side trading interests are gold and handicrafts. The beauty of this nation is that it has many atypical features that stand on its ground proudly. The locals are really friendly and lively and this makes them a perfect host with whom you can spend memorable days throughout your journey here. So, get ready to taste the authentic flavours, dance and sing along with the native locals and discover its amazing wildlife collections in its National parks.
AVG. COST PER DAY: $27 Paper day
The Internet is a major part of the telecommunication services in Burkina and has become a part of daily life. Although the country does not have very good setups, it has good connectivity in the urban areas.
The number of internet usage is not very high in Burkina Faso and due to less consumer interest, the internet scale is still in the developing stage. This makes the availability of the internet possible only in the capital location and other nearby spaces.
It is better to stick to your home connections and get a perfect plan that will support you during your whole travel period. In some parts, open Wi-Fi for the public is set up but due to connection issues, it is not very reliable.
Recommendation: The best way to stay connected to your loved ones is via internet calling as it is cheap and convenient. Use various mediums such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Skype, and much more.
The history of Burkina Faso leads back to the time of the early 20th century. It was a part of French West Africa and was called Upper Volta. It served under French rule from 1896 until 1960. This gave its local commodity more diversity that is evident even today.
The local ethnicity of the place features Mossi people. They lived here from the 11th to 13th century and built their community that spread in the area. They even established a powerful kingdom in the other part of the country and to date, the community is spotted in many parts of the nation.
The history does not just remain here, the people in Burkina Faso explored themselves culturally and soon handicraft trade became prominent in the region. This introduced the nation to other neighbours and gave it more diversity.
The geography of Burkina Faso does not have extreme differences. This landlocked country has a total area of 274,200 km sq. out of which the land area is 273,800 km sq. and the water area is 400 km sq.
Burkina Faso shares its borders with six other African countries, namely Benin (386 km), Ivory Coast (545 km), Ghana (602 km), Mali (1,325 km), Niger (622 km), and Togo (131 km). The total border length of the county is 3,611 km.
Burkina Faso has no coastal length and desert spaces are the major parts of its topography with some hill ranges along the side. The highest and lowest points of the country are Tena Kourou at 749 m and Mouhoun (Black Volta) River at 200 m.
The cultural diversity of Burkina Faso is quite evident from its historic routes. The Mossi people have lived here for a long period and their commodity portrayed major interests in the cultural aspects. Later the French colonies even left a mark on the nation through architecture.
Folk MusicBurkina Faso is a major admirer of folk music and to date the inclination is evident. Many shows and live concerts are held and the admirers fill up the audience seats every time any event takes place. Traditional instruments are played and folk singers fill the event area with their melodious voice.
HandicraftsHandicrafts play a major role in the cultural tales of Burkina Faso and it is evident in the marketplace and art centres too. In a way, handicrafts rule over most of the markets. The designs and colours used are amazing and creative and the folk African styles give it an ethnic touch.
Religious festivalsBurkina Faso is a Muslim dominating country and the festivals of Islam are its major points of interest. Ramadan and Eid are celebrated all over the country and people visit mosques to offer prayers. These annual religious events are national cultural interests and everyone celebrates them with utmost joy.
FOOD & DRINKA huge part of Burkina Faso’s food is mainly bread and meat (lamb, beef, and poultry). Pig or pork meat is not used in Burkina Faso as it is against the religious norms of Islam. The use of oil, herbs, and spices are prominent ingredients. Vegetables are used in salads, sauce-based dishes, couscous, and much more.
The meat is like a daily food in Burkina Faso and is a part of noon or night meals. Roasted, grilled, and gravy meats are the local’s favourite and they make it with the fusion of many spices that enhances the taste of meat.
The bread used in Burkina Faso cuisines has many types and it makes the cuisine menu of Burkina Faso even more amazing. Sesame seeds are used in some bread, some are thick and this makes the meal experience heavenly.
Hard drinks are not sold in public as drinking alcohol is prohibited in Islam. Instead, sharbat (flavoured drink) is the speciality of this African country. Fresh juices and many other non-alcoholic drinks are made here.
Must-Try Delicacies: Mutton Curry, Roasted Chicken, Beef Gravy, Shawarma, Meat Cutlet, Biryani, and much more.
Must-Try Drinks: Juice, Sharbat, Raita, Flavored Milk, and much more.
The best time to visit Burkina Faso is in the spring and autumn months. March and April are the spring months and November and October are the autumn months. During this time of the year, the weather is truly favourable and offers amazing tour adventures.
The mid-wintertime is also considered good to visit as it is the off-season and visitors get to experience the Burkina winters. The desert areas are quite cold and it is the perfect season to explore the spicy hot cuisines of Burkina.
The average temperature of Burkina Faso in the Spring and Autumn months:
Spring Months:Cascades de Karfiguela is a scenic waterfall area that projects marvellous views of nature. Its unspoiled surrounding is what makes it more special. The series of waterfalls falling rhythmically appear like the magic of nature.
Time: 24 hours
Entry Price: Free
Get an insight into Burkina Faso's history at Ruins of Loropeni and explore the heritage. This is a proud member of the UNESCO World Heritage list with an ancient fortress and reserved surrounding.
Time: Daytime recommended
Entry Price: USD 2.78
Sindou Peaks are the vertically erected peak elevations that appear as unique as they can be. Situated in the dry area of the country, it has a lot more to offer. From far they look like standing monuments but the rustic features are what attract tourists the most.
Time: : Daytime recommended
Entry Price: USD 1.85
Ouagadougou Cathedral was built in the early 20th century and is one of the renowned features of the country. This Roman catholic creation has always been a major centre of attraction and its unorthodox architecture stands out the most.
Time: Mostly during the day time
Entry Price: Free
Ouagadougou is the capital city of Burkina Faso and holds many named tourist sites. Its greenery, hills, and natural extravagance are engaging to both locals and foreign tourists. Each corner of the city has its specifics that stand out due to its authenticity.
Ouagadougou attractions: Ouagadougou Cathedral, National Museum of Music, Place des Cineastes, and much more.
Bobo-DioulassoBobo-Dioulasso is one of the prominent cities of Burkina Faso. The city is known for its farmer markets that offer fresh fruits and organic vegetables. Also, the market is renowned for cultural handicrafts that have major history.
Bobo-Dioulasso attractions: Bobo-Dioulasso Old Mosque, traditional markets, local handicraft shops, and much more.
BanforaBanfora is another famous city in Burkina Faso and is the sixth populated city in the nation. Its mind-blowing natural spots and animal habitats are the best features of the city. Visit its distinct spaces and explore the secrets hidden.
Banfora attractions: Les Cascades de Banfora, Les Pics de Sindou, Domes de Fabedougou and much more.
If you can make time...
More Places to Explore in Burkina FasoTabaski is a cultural festival celebrated by the Muslim community of the nation. It is an extended celebration of Ramadan. In this, the male of the family purchases and then slaughters a prepared animal and after that, they cook it to enjoy a warm and hearty meal with their family and friends.
Location: Burkina Faso
Date: In the month of Ramadan
The Hip Hop culture in Burkina Faso is very evident and to celebrate this performing art, the Festival International de la Culture Hip Hop was introduced. Artists from around the nation participate and showcase their talent here.
Location: Burkina Faso
Date: October
Festival Jazz is one of the most awaited festivals in Burkina Faso for Jazz fanatics. The biggest names appear at this event and rock the stage with their melodies and treats. Not to mention, the locals enjoy the performances for a whole day and make each moment count.
Location: Ouagadougou
Date: June to July
The visa requirements for Burkina Faso have become much less complicated over the years. To travel to Burkina Faso, your original passport with at least six months validity and a minimum of three blank pages along with the old passports (if any) is required.
For Burkina Faso citizens: Burkinabe citizens have visa-free or visa on arrival access to 57 countries and territories.
Visa-Free TravelList of Countries whose citizens can travel visa-free to Burkina Faso:
Benin, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Togo, and United Arab Emirates
Transit visasNationals of South Africa require a visa before arrival at all times, including transit. Other nationalities holding confirmed onward tickets may transit through the airports of Burkina Faso for up to 24 hours without a transit visa.
Get more information on ‘How to get a visa to Burkina Faso’ through the Official website of Burkina Faso.
**Please note that the information is subject to change. For the latest information and updates, please contact your embassy.
Renting a car or a taxi is the best way to move around Burkina Faso. The roads are well developed and it is the best means of transport to explore the remote areas and smaller towns with ease. It can be a bit expensive but the comfort is impeccable. Finding a taxi on the roads can be a bit of a hectic situation, so it is recommended to contact an official car rental company. Price varies as per the car services, distance travelled, and the number of people travelling.
Ride a busBuses are cheaper than any other means of transportation in Burkina Faso. There is frequent availability of buses to almost every part of the nation from towns to cities to villages. But it can be hard to spot in some of the rural spaces, so it recommended to not solely depend on the bus rides.
Train toursTrains are affordable, comfortable, and mainly used by the locals to go to distant places. Many trains depart from time to time and the schedule of the train can be availed beforehand to plan a perfect trip. In Burkina Faso, the trains are a major preference for the locals.
Visitors can easily reach Burkina Faso by the road route. Take a bus ride or simply book a car. Burkina caters as a perfect getaway to the neighbouring West and North African countries. The connectivity with nations via road is perfect for an amazing tour experience.
Via Air RouteAs a fun fact, Burkina Faso has more than 20 airports and the frequent availability of the flights is convenient. The flights serve numerous destinations and are a bit expensive but convenient. So, book the tickets and fly to this gem locale.
Mali is a bordering country of Burkina Faso and is known for its cultural dominance. The people have their own beliefs and respect their traditions a lot. Explore the major religious and cultural corners of the country and be amazed.
Niger (548.3 km)Niger is another bordering nation of Burkina Faso that holds a major wildlife diversity. Its zoos and savannahs invite you for amazing animal-watching tours that offer exciting insights into their daily life.
Ghana (700.3 km)Ghana is an amazing and interesting place to discover all over the African continent. Its culture, tradition, natural extravagance brings more diversity in its appearance. Also, the handicrafts and other authentic colourful creations give it a whole new angle for the art admirers.
Distance Between Places Of Importance In And Around Burkina FasoWhy book your travel with us?